How to Spend Less and Have a Great Time in Dubai

How to Spend Less and Have a Great Time in Dubai

by: Christine Petrosa

So you want to go to Dubai but have heard how expensive it can be for both vacationers and business travelers alike? If that's what you've heard, then whoever told you hasn't experienced Dubai. Here are some money saving tips that can cut your Dubai budget in half.

Shopping in Dubai

If shopping is your pleasure, then Dubai is your dreams come true. Not only do you have some of the biggest malls in the world with all the major brands, but Dubai, being originally a trading hub between the east and west offers you one of the most fascinating shopping experiences on the globe. From traditional souks (where you can find jewelry and cloth, among many others things), to the Indian markets in Deira, finding everything from spices to electronics. Ask around in the back-alley stores and you can even find that satellite decoder that opens all the paid channels. Don't forget to haggle, they never turn away a customer, and you'll know when you've hit the lowest price.

Communication

Avoid high phone charges in the hotel room and get a pre-paid calling card which you can use from any phone booth and private lines to call international. If you are expecting to stay for a while, get a pre-paid GSM card (WASEL) for Dhs.165 ($45). Limit your outgoing calls and get free incoming calls for a year ( more info ). The WASEL GSM line must be purchased from an Etisalat office (don't forget to bring a passport copy), but pre-paid cards can be purchased from any convenient store, gas stations or tobacco store.

Food

For cheap eats, it's hard to beat the Indian restaurants serving the city's largest working population. Try the buttered chicken with buttered ‘nan' bread, and you'll have cravings for it for years to come. For a $3 meal, expect to eat with your hands, but you can always politely ask for a fork or spoon. The occasional foreigner is expected and well-cared for.

If you're on a tight budget, only eat at hotels when they have meal deals, otherwise, you'll be paying too much. Find Open Buffet specials starting at $10 per person, some Friday Brunch offers include use of the swimming pool for the day. You can find excellent Meal Deals here .

Drink

It might come as a surprise to you, but Dubai is a Party Town. With all the long hours at work, many people like to go out and chill during the week. For the budget traveler, look for Ladies Nights and Happy Hours happening in Dubai. Guaranteed you'll find one for every night of the week. Check out Time Out Dubai or Dubai Look before going out. If you don't have access to the internet, you can buy the “Time Out Dubai” Magazine from any store which includes the full listings for the month.

Sun and Sand

Want to spend a day by the pool at one of the exclusive hotels in Jumeirah, but not pay the high prices of the rooms? Almost all the hotels sell vouchers for a day's access to the hotel's beaches, pools, health club and spa. Sleep in a cheap hotel, spend the day in pure luxury... no one will know. Prices start at $10 and can go up to $60 depending on the hotel.

There are many public beaches, but for only Dhs. 5 ($1.40) you can spend the day at Jumeirah Beach Park on the beach road in Jumeirah. Not only do you have access to the beach with life guards, but you also have gardens, play areas for children, showers and barbecue areas. Note that Saturdays are for women and children only. (Call 04-3492555 for more information)
Transportation

Want to save on transportation? Dubai cabs can be costly for tourists. So, until the Dubai metro gets up and running by year 2009 for the first line and 2015 for the second line, try the buses. Waiting for the bus can take a while, especially since they are hardly on schedule. In the summer months, the heat can become unbearable during the wait and most bus stops don't have a covered waiting area. But taking the bus can turn out to be quite an experience, don't be afraid and make sure you budget the time for the trip as it can take 3 times the amount to get there over taking a taxi.

Renting a car? Don't use the international rental companies. Local companies, especially ones in Sharjah give you rates much less than the big brand names. They will provide drop off and pick up in Sharjah and Dubai. But if you do have problems with renting a car from a no-name car rental, then Budget Car Rental is the best choice for Dubai. Book early from an online booking service to guarantee the best prices and availability. And the best part of renting a car in Dubai? Gas is Cheap!

Entertainment

Dubai Shopping Festival (mid January to mid February) and Dubai Summer Surprises (end of June to beginning of September) hosts free entertainment all month long. Hundreds of shows and events all crammed into one month. You and your kids, if they are tagging along, will not get bored. Fireworks, raffle, street markets, clowns, monster trucks, are just some of the highlights. Go here for more information.

Horse Racing at Nad Al Sheba is held from 28th of October until the 26th of March. Each Race Night stages 6 or 7 individual races, the first starting at 7pm (or 9pm during the Holy Month of Ramadan). Public access to the races is free. Don't forget the world's richest horse race, the Dubai World Cup held in March. (www.dubaiworldcup.com). Unless you want to sit in the VIP section, entrance to the public enclosures is also free for this spectacular event.

Where would you rather be?

Where is your favorite travel destination? How often do you go? Is there somewhere you would like to visit if money was no object?

I would rather be in...Fiji

Fiji has over 300 islands in its archipelago, each fringed with coral reefs and lapped by warm azure waters - the diving and snorkelling are superb. Amid its wealth of natural beauty, Fiji's true magic lies in its people and the fascinating blend of their diverse cultures.

Fiji is an interesting blend of Melanesian, Polynesian, Micronesian, Indian, Chinese and European influences. For nearly 50 years, until the military coup of 1987, the indigenous people of Fiji represented an ethnic minority in their own land.

Its mild tropical climate means that Fiji can be enjoyed all year round and it is a popular escape from the winters in both the northern and southern hemispheres. Perhaps the best time to go, however, is in the dry season or 'Fiji winter', from May to October. This time of year has cooler temperatures, less rainfall and humidity, and less risk of tropical cyclones

You won't go wrong with cash in Fiji although restaurants, shops, mid- to upper-range hotels, car rental agencies, tour and travel agents will usually accept all of the major credit cards. Visa, American Express, Diners Club and MasterCard are widely used. Some resorts charge an additional 5% for payment by credit card.

Top Beaches

Top Beaches in the World

Here is a list of some of the best beaches in the world.

Khao Lak Beach Phuket, Thailand
Poipu Beach Hawaii, USA
Matira Beach Bora Bora, Pacific Ocean
Maroma Beach Mexico
South Beach Florida , USA
Pink Sands Beach Bahamas
Ipanema Beach Brazil
Biarritz France
St. Tropez France
Anse Sourse Beach Seychelles
Clifton Beach South Africa

I would rather be in...Xishuanbanna

Xishuangbanna is a sub-tropical region in South China, in the deep south of Yunnan province, bordering with Laos and Burma. It has a distinct South-East Asian feel and is a melting pot for Yunnan minorities. While the largest minority in Xishuangbanna are the Dai people, ethnically belonging to the Thai family(along with Siamese, Lao, etc); other minorities include the Miao, Zhuang, Yao, Jinuo, Lahu, etc. The Dai are traditionally Buddhist, combining Theravada Buddhism, (like in Thailand, Cambodia, Burma and Sri-Lanka) with indigenous spirit worship. Now, that the Chinese relaxed their anti-religious campaign, monasteries are being re-opened and orange-clad monks from Thailand arrive to revive the Buddhist tradition.

Real Estate in...Bonaire

Sample Real Estate 1: Listed at $350,000 USD. You can listen the the weaves gently lap against the beach while entertaining on the luxurious lanai.

Sample Real Estate 2: Listed at $599,000 USD. Located right on the water, Klein Bonaire is close enough to touch! The expansive, wrap around porch overlooks the ocean with lots of room to read and relax. This unit has 2 bedrooms and 2 baths including a large master suite. Possible 3rd bedroom is now open sun room/porch. Sold furnished.

Real Estate in ...Bali

Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate

Sample Real Estate 1: Listed at $68,000 Euro.The house has nice views around. At the front you look upon a valley, with ricefields. On the left side one can see the ocean and on the right beautiful mountain scenery. The roof size is about 200 square meters, and inside there is 144 square meters of space Sample Real Estate 2: Listed at $84,000 USD. This 5 bedroomed villa in Sanur not far from the Airport and main Highway is in a quiet suburb, there is no pool but enough room to build one.

Sample Real Estate: Listed at $95,000 USD. Nice house with green fields views. Black top road access in popular Bali Area. 3 rooms, with view on green fields. 6,5 are of land. North of Kuta is this unspoiled village 'Canggu'. If you are looking to get away from the noisy life on Kuta and still be near the busy south this can be the place. The nearby beach is known for good surfing conditions, the waves can be large.

I would rather be in...Bali

Most people come to Bali to experience the marvelously rich culture heritage; some come for the beaches and the waves; some come for meeting and convention; others for pure relaxation. But if you are a nature lover don’t miss Jatiluwih, is a breathtaking panorama of genuine and fertile rice fields stretch from the foothills of Batukaru volcano to the south coast.

It is located at the western district of Tabanan. This western uplands of Batukaru are famed for magnificent landscapes. The view from the mountain village, Jatiluwih, takes in the whole of South Bali. Perched on a high terraced slope, Jatiluwih deserves its name, which means “Truly Marvelous”. A wonder of the world. It’s worth a venture.

You can initiate your trip in the morning leaving the hotel at 09.00. A.M. There are many ways to see Bali and each serves its own purpose well. Motorcycles are a pleasant (but extremely risky) way to see the countryside and cooler than ride in a car. Jeep and minivans are also available for hire – with or without a driver. It is advisable to settle the price with the driver before starting on a journey.

After passing the town of Tabanan the road takes you to the north through the villages of Wanasari, Jegu, Buruan and Wangaya Gede. On the route you will be amazed by the wonderful rural ambience; farmhouses, characteristically, a little shrine to place offerings dedicated to Dewi Sri the Goddess of rice, plowing, flocks of ducks that are brought to bathe and feed all day in the flooded paddies, and harvesting, that one pictures when remembering Bali. The cascading terraces of rice fields are the most striking features of the landscape.

If you see farmers are working the rice, planting or harvesting, and if you are interested in experience it, you can stop and joint them, you will be welcomed gladly. “Alo turis, alo turis!” followed by giggles is the standard greeting from children everywhere on Bali. Older people will be more sedate but their curious eyes will follow you, as will their more modest greeting of “mau kemana” (where are you going). Traveling in Bali can be exhilarating and getting off the beaten track can take you right to the heart of Balinese life, although you don’t have to stray far to feel it.

On the route at the village of Wanasari there is a butterflies park, you can stop and watch various kinds of colorful tropical butterflies. And then nearby the temple Pura Luhur is the holy spring of Air Panas, where hot water surges from the river bank. All strange, natural phenomena are believed to be frequented by spirits. Thus, Air Panas is graced by a small temple where people make their prayers with offerings.

The journey continues up the road until it dead ends at Pura Luhur Batukaru (2,278 m / 7,474 ft). Being one of Bali’s most venerated temples, every West Balinese temple has a shrine dedicated to it; it is isolated within its solitary clearing far above the populated farmlands. The dense rainforest of this upland would invite every adventurer to explore it. Wild orchids, healing herbs, fragrant spices and exotic trees could be discovered in this mystical heart and soul of this amazing island.

Then, the last destination (the goal of the journey) is the mountain village Jatiluwih, a breathtaking panorama of genuine and the most fertile terraces rice fields on the island. It is said as the granary of the whole Bali. Perched on a high terraced slope, Jatiluwih deserves its name, which means “Truly Marvelous”. The cascading terraces of rice fields are the most striking features of the landscape. Stretch from the foothill of Batukaru volcano to the south coast. The cool western uplands, overlooking half the island, offer magnificent views.

On the route to Jatiluwih you can observe many kinds of tropical vegetation; coffee, coconuts, cacaos, cloves, jack fruits, bananas, papayas, sirsaks, an extremely juicy fruit, rambutans, mangoes, durians the smelly fruit, etc. The western upland is the most interesting area to hike. If you love hiking (don’t forget your picnic basket). A true journey to the secret soul of Bali. But if you want to have your meals at a restaurant, continue your travel to the east till you arrive at Pacung, there is a good restaurant offers delicious buffet lunch – with its wonderful sight of terraces rice field and the sacred volcano Batukaru in the distance.

Waka Land Cruise a reputable company has been organizing a sacred adventure to the secret soul of Bali. Travel by legendary luxury Land Rover, on tiny country roads and tracks, through terraced rice fields and untouched rainforest to the real heart of Bali.

So keep in mind the beautiful Bali for your holiday, because it would be worth to venture there.

I would rather be in...Mozambique

Before discovering Mozambique, I did not know that there could be a place like it in Africa.

Mozambique is located in Southern Africa along the coast of the Indian Ocean between South Africa and Tanzania.The former Portuguese colony was once a premier destination for wealthy European tourists. Civil war, however, destroyed much of the country's infrastructure leaving tourists, let alone the local population, with sparse options.

It's proximity to South Africa has resulted in a steady influx of investment into tourism facilities along the south-east coast of the country. Mozambique has some of the best beaches on the East African coast, offering azure waters, coral reefs and subtropical islands. Tourists are flocking to hot spots such as Tofu, Vilankulos and the Bazaruto Archipelago.

The capital Maputo is a stones throw from the South African and Swazi borders. Scheduled buses ply the 6-hour route from Nelspruit and Johannesburg (8 hours) to Maputo. Heading into Swaziland, minibuses leave Maputo every hour just east of the central market. Bill's Bus now offers convenient service between Swaziland-Maputo-Tofo Beach.

The capital Maputo is not without it's charms. The picturesque train stationis just one of many beautiful spots around the city that speak to the country's European influences. For a more traditional feel, the market teems with life - especially seafood. Prawns are a Mozambican specialty,and fisherman bring them in by the truckload. A definite highlight is the Maputo fish market, located on north end of Avenida Marginal. This is the first stop for local fisherman who unload the best of their catch here before heading into town. You can find bushels of crabs selling for a few dollars. The market is surrounded by small bars and restaurants that will cook your purchase for a small fee - which may or may not include a few of your shrimp!

Tofu consists of a pristine mile-long beach, complete with gorgeous sunsets and amazing surf. Several backpacker lodges have been set up along the beach with dorms, singles and camping.Few travelers venture far past Tofu. The surf/dive mecca of Vilankulos lies approximately 300 km up the highway from Tofu. Part of the Bazaruto Archipelago this beautiful area allows travelers to sail under the night skies on traditional dhows, go big game fishing or simply enjoy the surf.

The Bazaruto Archipelago is one of the most beautiful places on the African continent, complete with azure waters, sandy beaches, palm trees and pristine coral reefs, plus tropical fish to goggle at and big game fish to catch. This national park is a divers' and snorkellers' paradise. Of the five main islands, only Bangué has a permanent human population.

Be forewarned that travel in Mozambique is not all fun and games. Tourists are frequently pulled aside and asked for their documents so be sure to carry at least a photocopy of your passport at all times. More importantly, millions of landmines remain scattered throughout the countryside. Do not walk off the beaten path. Annual flooding means that areas that were once considered safe are off limits. And like in any big city, use common sense to avoid being rendered a victim. Crime isn't abnormally high in Mozambique but big, dark cities aren't always friendly so be on guard at night.

Quick Facts:

Population:17,000,000

Visas Overview: All visitors need visas, which are good for up to three months, and proof of onward travel.

I would rather be in...Palau

Palau is the last word in underwater wonderlands. It also features Micronesia's richest flora and fauna, both on land and beneath the waves, and what's more, they released an Elvis Presley postage stamp a full year before the USA got around to doing so. Even Survivors took place there.

Getting to Palau is probably the most difficult part from where I am (Pacific Rim). From the western seaboard of the United States, you can hop to Hawaii, skip to Guam, then jump to Palau. For a scenic island route, you can do an island hop across Micronesia to Palau. Through Asia, there are twice weekly charter services between Taipei, Taiwan and Palau and additional flights are also available during peak seasons. From Europe, there are now conveniently connecting flights from Frankfurt to Palau, or from most European cities via Manila, Philippines.

One of the most interesting things to see in Palau is the Jellyfish Lake. An attraction most can only dream of, this daring and unusual phenomena, Jellyfish Lake, departs radically from convention; for it is an enclosed body of water wherein - over the course of a millennia - resident jellyfish have completely lost their sting because they have not had to fight off predators. Instead, they spend their days in privileged leisure, pulsating gently from one side of the lake to the other while catching the sun's rays and farming their own food supply of algae.

Quick Facts:

Language: English (official)

Population: 18,400

Visas Overview: All tourists may visit Palau for 30 days. Visas are issued on arrival for up to 30 days and can be extendend. Passports should be valid in Palau for 6 months beyond the period of your intended stay and you must have a return/onward ticket.

Weather: On most of the islands you can almost be guaranteed that the temperature will be between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F) at any time of the day, any day of the year.

I would rather be in...Mongolia

Mongolia is sometimes referred to as "Blue Mongolia", because of the eternal blue dome hanging over endless steppes. This is the image in my mind.

It's hard to beat Mongolia for outdoor travel, particularly during its mild, sunny summer. Camping, hiking, horseback riding or biking through stunning landscapes - from lush pastures to alpine forests to desert - offer a dream vacation for the active traveler.

The only problem is getting there. Roads are terrible, distances vast and language barriers challenging. It has often been said that you need plenty of money and time to get the most out of Mongolia . But that was when the country's former rulers controlled tourism.

Here are some basic costs:

Taxi/Jeep (including gas):Tg 250 or 20 cent per km

Park permits: $ 1 per day

Guide (English-speaking): $ 10 to $ 20 per day

Gher camp (with meals): $ 15 to $ 60 per day per person

Homestay (including meals): $ 15 to $ 20 per day per person

Horseback riding $ 2 to $ 5 per hour

Mongolia is known for its unreliable transportation infrastructure, so you need to be prepared for delays....late airplanes, late buses, late trains, etc, etc... I think it's best to see Mongolia with guides for the first time.

But, if you can rough through all of this, Mongolia is paradise for a the kind of traveller who is looking for unique adventures. By jeep, on foot, or on horseback, the natural wonders of Mongolia rival any in the world. Roam the dry washes of the Gobi famous for dinosaur bones or watch the Naadam festival; horse racing, wrestling and archery.

Quick Facts:

Language: Mongolian (official)

Population: 2,600,000

Currency:Tugrik (Tug)

Visa Overview: Entry and exit visas are required of all nationalities, as is a valid passport. No visa is required for Americans visiting for fewer than 90 days.

I would rather be in..Bonaire

This small, arid boomerang of an island is my paradise.

Bonaire's pristine reefs and diverse marine life are unique to the Caribbean. Because the waters around Bonaire are designated as an official marine park, diving Bonaire is like diving the Caribbean the way it used to be - untouched and unspoiled. The island's location in the south Caribbean gives it an arid climate with little rainfall; consequently, the waters are exceptionally clear of silt, calm, and divable year round. I think it is an ideal destination for underwater photographers.

If you can swim, you can put on a mask and start enjoying the wonderful sea creatures and the coral formations. You will be able to float effortlessly and observe the feeding and courtship rituals of the reefs many residents. There is nothing in Bonaire's water that is dangerous, but be sure not to touch anything as you may harm it and disturb the delicate natural balance of the reef.

One thing I did not find in Bonaire are endless shops selling the same trinkets and souvenirs at ever changing prices. What you will find is a main shopping avenue, a few mini malls and lots of interesting establishments tucked away. Each store is unique and stocks merchandise that is competitively priced with goods from the United States and Europe.

It's been said that real estate, whether it be land, home, or commercial property, is one of the best investment opportunities on Bonaire. If you do buy a home, land or business on Bonaire, you will need to have legal papers processed via the Notaries of Bonaire. The Notaris (Notary) office can also answer questions about starting a business.

Quick Facts:

Offical Language : Dutch (although English is widely spoken)

Currency: Netherlands Antilles Guilder (NAf)

Population: 13,000

Religion: Roman Catholic, Protestant, Jewish

Visas Overview: US and Canadian citizens need a passport and return or onward tickets. Others must bring visa, passport and return or onward tickets. The maximum stay is 14 days, with the option to extend your visit up to 90 days. The best thing is to contact the Bonaire ambassy in your area.